Remembering Dr Allama Iqbal
By Sumit Paul, New Age Islam
10 November 2025
November 9 was the birth anniversary of Dr Muhammad Iqbal. To honour him, this day is commemorated as Urdu Day. Much has been written on his sublime poetry, so much so that now it sounds a cliché. I, therefore, shall discuss his two famous thoughts:
Muhammad Iqbal once wisely stated, "The greatest obstacle to progress is not ignorance, but the illusion of knowledge." In this profound quote, Iqbal emphasizes that true progress is hindered not by the lack of awareness or knowledge itself, but rather by the misguided belief that one possesses all the knowledge required. It serves as a reminder that arrogance and complacency can blind individuals from recognizing their own limitations and areas where they lack understanding. This illusionary sense of knowledge leads to stagnation and impedes the journey towards progress. Therefore, Iqbal's words encourage humility, openness, and a willingness to continuously learn and grow, as true progress can only be achieved by acknowledging and overcoming the illusion of knowledge.
Most of us have an illusion of knowledge which is far more dangerous and inimical than sheer ignorance. An ignorant person is aware of his ignorance but a person with an illusion of knowledge thinks that he has all the knowledge and he's Mr. know-it-all. With the illusion of knowledge comes pontification and hubris. That person will correct all in public and educate everyone the way the rabid imperialist Rudyard Kipling thought that it was The White Man's Burden to 'educate' the natives. That's the reason, there's a famous adage in Urdu, "Ilm Ka Bharam Jahalat Se Zyada Khatarnaak Hota Hai" (the illusion of knowledge is more dangerous than ignorance).
The second quote by Muhammad Iqbal, "Strive for excellence, not perfection," conveys a profound message about the importance of having realistic aspirations and a growth mindset. Iqbal emphasizes that it is crucial to focus on pursuing excellence rather than striving for an unattainable state of perfection. Perfection can often paralyze and discourage individuals, as it sets an impossible standard. However, aiming for excellence allows individuals to continuously improve, learn from their mistakes, and attain personal growth. Iqbal's words serve as a reminder that it is the journey towards excellence that truly matters, as it fosters continuous progress and fulfilment in various aspects of life. Moreover, perfection is a chimera. It doesn't exist. Even if it exists, it restricts you because there's nothing beyond that. So, Muhammad Iqbal himself said, "Sitaron Se Aage Jahan Aur Bhi Hain" (There're worlds beyond the stars). Perfection is not the end. It's a continuous journey towards excellence. To quote, Taufeeq Jaunpuri, "Kar Sitaron Ko Chhoone Ki Ummeed / Aaya Haath Mein Chaand Toh Teri Qismat" (Aspire to touch the stars / If you reach the moon, it's your luck). Perfection comes when you don't chase it but remain steadfast in your journey to excellence.
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A regular columnist for New Age Islam, Sumit Paul is a researcher in comparative religions, with special reference to Islam. He has contributed articles to the world's premier publications in several languages including Persian
URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islamic-personalities/dr-allama-iqbal/d/137576
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